Obituary of Samantha Paige Kotrous

KOTROUS SAMANTHA

Samantha Paige Kotrous, age 18 of Yankton, SD passed away suddenly at home Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at her home. Memorial service will be 11:00 am Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home in Yankton. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent at www.opsahl-kostelfuneralhome.com.

Samantha was born on December 12, 2006, she was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her. She was the cherished daughter of Corey and Kimberly Kotrous and the beloved little sister of Lance Kotrous, all of Yankton, SD. She shared her young life with her boyfriend, Gannon Guidry, and her sweet dog, Letti.

Samantha attended Yankton High School, and brought her kindness and sunny smile wherever she went. She was working at McDonald’s and spent previous summers working at Dairy Dock and at Rock Bottom.

Samantha loved simple joys—playing card games with friends and family, spending time on the lake tubing, and making memories that will be treasured forever. She was a vibrant young woman whose laughter and warmth touched everyone. 

She is survived by her parents, Corey and Kimberly; her brother, Lance; and her grandparents, Jimmie and Judy Kotrous of Verdigre, NE and Russell and Janelle Ekeren of Yankton, SD.  Aunts and Uncles ~Jill (Phil) Clark of Omaha NE. Brittany (Jimmy) Pesek of Verdigre, NE. Bradley Kotrous (Brooke) of Page, NE. Stacy Schwarz of Sioux Falls SD. Chad (Lori) Sherman of Plymouth MN. Linsey (Tim) Peterson of Yankton, SD. Stephanie Ekeren (Josh) of Rogers, MN. Janessa Ekeren (Paris) of Woodridge, IL. Cousins Braxton, Brayden, Addison, Brody, Nora, Keygan, Ashlynn, Raelynn and Stanley. All of their love and support meant so much to her.

She was proceeded in death by grandparents, Douglas and Susan Sherman. Guinea pigs Peanut and Ginger

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.